Hamster smells and swollen privates

Question
Hello Hilary. I have two hamsters, Vlad and Reinfield. We had them together for a while but then I noticed them fighting so we seperated the two. Vlad was an adult black bear and Reinfield was a baby hamster (brown in color, not a black bear). We have had him for about three months now. I had noticed a scratch on Reinfields underbelly when I seperated them. I usually use critter care natural bedding but my pet store was out so I purchased pine bedding this last time. I had noticed a funky smell from Reinfields cage for about three days but assumed it was because of the bedding switch but when I did hid cage today I noticed Vlad's cage didn't smell any differently and that on Reinfield his penis looked rather red and swollen. I put peroxide on it and it fizzed like it might of been infected if it was something wrong with us humans. I can't afford to take him to the vet, I already called and got prices, but I don't want him to get worse or die. Can you please help both him and I. Thank you very much,
Stella

Answer
Hi Stella!  It does sound as though an infection may be present.  Taking him to a veterinarian would be best for him, but I understand all too well, how expensive it can be.  You can try going to your local pet store and purchasing some antibiotic drops.  These are very inexpensive and will simply go into Reinfield's water.  Using peroxide may dry out the area too much.  Try using a little warm water with some antibacterial soap to clean the area every other day.  Keeping his cage extremely clean during the next week will also help eliminate more bacteria adding to his infection.  The best way to clean the cage when an infection is present is by wiping it down with a little bleach mixed with water and then rinsing thoroughly.  The bleach will kill any bacteria/germs.  Be sure to replace clean bedding everyday.  You should see an improvement within a few days.
I hope this helps and please keep me posted!
Hilary